Havashu

7-14 lbs
8-11"
United States
Havanese
Shih Tzu
Bursting with energy, the Havashu is a small dog that is lively, affectionate and full of life.  She can have moments of hyperactivity, but most of the time she is very responsive and outgoing, greeting all visitors with an exuberant welcome. These dogs fit right into family life, blending well with other pets and getting into mischief with the children. They love to snuggle and will happily accept your attention and adoration. Occasionally you will notice a stubborn streak during training when your Havashu has her own ideas about what to do, but patience and positive training methods will soon overcome her reluctance. They are people pleasers, and will do anything to make their people happy. While they don't necessarily need a big yard, it would be a bonus as she likes to run around freely and explore her turf. They adjust well to apartment living as long as they get a daily walk and some play time in the dog park.
purpose Purpose
Companion, competitive obedience and agility, watchdog
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Havanese, Shih Tzu

Havashu Health

Average Size
Male Havashu size stats
Height: 9-12 inches Weight: 8-15 lbs
Female Havashu size stats
Height: 8-11 inches Weight: 7-14 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Patellar Luxation
  • Chondrodysplasia (Chd)
  • Bladder Stones
  • Mitral Valve Disease
Minor Concerns
  • Bone And Joint Problems
  • Allergies
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Ear Infection and Inflammation
Occasional Tests
  • Hearing
  • Skin Scraping
  • X-ray imaging
  • Electrocardiogram
  • Urinalysis
  • Complete Blood Work
  • Full Physical Examination

Havashu Breed History

With limited data regarding the first origins of the Havashu dog, we need to look at the history of the parent dogs (the Havanese and the Shih Tzu) to understand the characteristics that may be inherited by the new hybrid breed. The Shih Tzu is a very ancient breed dating back to early China or Tibet - the discussion is still ongoing about this very fact. But what is agreed is that the Shih Tzu was a treasured companion dog. They are documented on artifacts from both countries history. It was customary to give a pair of these dogs to noblemen or people of influence as a gift - such was their value. Gentle and affectionate, the Shih Tzu was often called the little lion dog because of their appearance. During 1928 the first breeding pair arrived in England, and then in 1969 they were recognised by the American Kennel Club. These dogs love to sit in your lap and want to be with you all the time. 

Happiest when they are the centre of attention, this little dog loves to play and has a happy disposition making them ideal family dogs. The Havanese suffered a severe decline in numbers in the late 1800s as their popularity waned. Their ancestors were originally from Spain, and they accompanied their owners to Cuba when Columbus  claimed the territory for Spain in 1492. They bred with local dogs on the island and over time became the Havanese that is so well known today. 

They had a spell of popularity during the 1800s with the rich and wealthy in both Cuba and Europe, but then they all but vanished from the scene. It was only later when breeders took on the challenge to save the breed that saw a slow recovery as the breed once more established itself. These dogs love company and don't like to be left alone. Loving and gentle by nature, they are a true companion dog.

Havashu Breed Appearance

The Havashu is an adorable looking dog who is a lot sturdier than you first give her credit for. Weighing up to 15 pounds, she is an active dog who loves to run around and check everything out. Her body is often slightly higher at the back end due to her longer hind legs, and her tail can either be held high or curl giving her a comical look. The head is rounded at the top between the floppy feathered ears. A short muzzle ends with a rich black button nose and small teeth meeting in a scissors bite. Part of her appeal is her expressive eyes that are round and dark, surrounded by black rims. The coat is wavy or can even be curly, depending on the parental genetic influences and is long and fine in texture. The total package is a dog of definite character and appeal ideal for families or individual owners.

Eye Color Possibilities
brown Havashu eyes
Brown
amber Havashu eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Havashu nose
Black
brown Havashu nose
Brown
Coat Color Possibilities
brown Havashu coat
Brown
gray Havashu coat
Gray
cream Havashu coat
Cream
black Havashu coat
Black
white Havashu coat
White
sable Havashu coat
Sable
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Havashu wavy coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Havashu Breed Maintenance

The Havashu has moderate needs when it comes to grooming, and although she is not a heavy shedder, her long coat will require regular brushing to keep it in good condition. Three times per week should be enough to keep it looking great. A professional groomer may be needed for some regular trimming or stripping to be done, depending on the density of her coat. While you are brushing her coat it is a good time to just check to ensure there are no injuires, infection or sores on her body. Check out the inner ear to look for any inflammation, and gently clean with a soft damp cloth and dry well. Bathing is on a needs only basis, using special dog shampoos designed to maintain the natural oils of the coat and skin. While she is calm and lapping up all the attention, give her teeth a good brushing with a specialty dog product, and finally clip her nails if they need it, taking care not to trim down too close to the nail bed.

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Brushes for Havashu
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Comb
Comb
Deshedder
Deshedder
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Havashu requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Havashu Temperament

Playful, cheerul and full of fun describes the Havashu dog. These sturdy little dogs have plenty of energy and will follow you around constantly to see what you are up to. They are alert and very smart, only barking when strangers arrive on the property. The Havashu is great with children, being sturdier than most small dogs they are not as fragile although it is advisable to teach young children how to care for their dog without hurting them. They also mix well with other pets as long as they have been socialised well, otherwise they can chase anything that moves just for the fun of it than actual aggression. The Havashu is known to have moments when they can be a bit hyperactive, or on the other end  they can sulk if you have used a strong tone to tell them off. But overall, the Havashu dog is a well rounded small dog with a large attitude and passion for life. They are ideal family dogs and are loyal and devoted friends.

Havashu Activity Requirements

While a lot of the Havershu's activity will come from her indoor play and from following the family around, she will need a daily walk preferably twice a day to burn off her abundant energy. If you have a small secure yard, then that is ideal for this busy body little dog. But they adapt well to apartment living as long as they can get out for a walk or some free time off the leash in the pet park, socialising with all her four legged friends. The Havashu is an alert dog so events like obedience or agility lessons will ensure she is mentally stimulated as she does like a challenge and loves to please.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
6 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
60 minutes
activity minutes

Havashu Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
1 cups
cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.00 - $1.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$25.00 - $35.00
food bag monthly cost

Havashu Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Havashu size stats at six months
Height: 5.0 inches Weight: 3.5 lbs
Female Havashu size stats at six months
Height: 4.5 inches Weight: 3.5 lbs
12 Months
Male Havashu size stats at 12 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 11.5 lbs
Female Havashu size stats at 12 months
Height: 9.5 inches Weight: 10.5 lbs
18 Months
Male Havashu size stats at 18 months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 11.5 lbs
Female Havashu size stats at 18 months
Height: 9.5 inches Weight: 10.5 lbs

Havashu Owner Experiences

Noel
2 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing in the snow
blowing her face and her running away,
Walking
she is so loving and loves to cuttle and play
8 months, 1 week ago
Mowli
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is the most affectionate and playful dog I have ever owned. We call him the lumpster because when he goes to sleep, he will not move! We love him so much.
2 years, 10 months ago
Bella
4 Years
3 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Swim
Chase
Bath time
Brushing
Dressing up
Playing in the snow
My Havashu's name is Bella, and she is the sweetest dog in the world. She loves to go outside and she loves to play ball.
6 years, 11 months ago
Spanky
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Spanky is so hilarious!!!! He is definitely part of our family. Everyone that comes to our home wants to see Spanky!!! He gives a lot of love and the best leg hugs EVER!!!!
6 years, 10 months ago
Teddy
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Cuddling
Playing Ball
Teddy is a wonderful dog! He has lots of energy but he also loves snuggling. The kids fight over who gets to sleep with him every night. When you are sad, he will come to you and comfort you. You can carry him around like a baby and he will lean into you. He also loves to lick feet.
6 years, 5 months ago
Shatzi
1 Year
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Shatzi means sweetheart in German and she is named appropriately.Shatzi is a love bug who loves cuddles as much as Chasing her ball and her Dachshund brother around the house.
6 years, 2 months ago
Berkeley
2 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
My Berkeley is very active and loving, he was very easy to train
5 years, 10 months ago
Tyler
17 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Talk
Eat
Play
sleep
Tyler is very loving overly protective very smart sakes me up when it's time for me to go to work. Very compassionate to my cats.But sometimes he got an attitude when teased by other people.He tells you when he wants to per or pooh, so better know how to anticipate that.. he is turning 2 this December 2019.
5 years, 6 months ago
Sunny
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Sunny is very smart. He loves to play fetch with his toys inside the house. He definitely loves to follow us around and he tries to be sneaky sometimes. He enjoys playing with other dogs. We love him so much.
5 years, 1 month ago
Bruno
2 Years
3 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Tug-of-war
Walk
Most affectionate dog I've ever had. He's quick when it comes to commands but sometimes is too excited to fully listen to them. Bruno loves to sleep on beds at night and will curl up on any pillow he can get to.
4 years, 10 months ago
Zeke
5 Months
2 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Zeke is a bundle of joy! Natural born cuddler, good natured, very affectionate, a bit stubborn & has an opinion! Love him!
4 years, 1 month ago
Versace
2 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
She is special and beautiful.
3 years, 9 months ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd